"We, the members of St. Joseph Parish, as followers of Jesus Christ, are committed to serving the church, recognizing that our Church is a community of the people of God.
Dear Parishioners and Friends of St. Joseph,
This weekend as we celebrate Thanksgiving, we are reminded that all gifts come from God. Our attitude of gratitude is one that we should carry all year long. God always gives in abundance – for this, we give thanks. I wish you all a very happy and holy thanksgiving weekend with your families.
Thank you to all parishioners who joined us for our Communal Rosary on Oct 7th. I once again encourage each of us to pray the rosary each day throughout the month of October and moving forward. May Our Lady of the Holy Rosary intercede for us.
I will be on vacation Oct 12-20 inclusive. In my absence Fr. Peter Walton and the parish staff will look after your spiritual needs. Please contact the office with your requests in my absence.
I also welcome all parishioners to attend our CIA sessions with our next meeting taking place on Tuesday October 13th at 6:30pm.
The month of November continues to be the month in which the Church reminds us to especially pray for those who have died. The mercy of God is abundant, and yet we should never take it for granted. We have a responsibility to pray for our loved ones, whether they passed away recently, or many years ago.
As an example, on Monday Sept 28 marked the 6th anniversary of my father, Tony Passero's passing. You may notice a number of masses said for his eternal repose - I offer monthly Masses for my dad and thank others who have generously offered a Mass for him too. I encourage you all to participate in this long meaningful tradition of our Church that has great power.
Please also be generous in your monetary offering in the envelope as well. The usual Mass stipend for one Mass and one intention is $10, so may our giving reflect the many Masses celebrated for our loved ones. Cash or cheques can be inserted in the envelope, or etransfers can be sent to myparishgift@gmail.com with ALL SOULS in the memo line so these funds are earmarked accordingly.
Please note if you included your loved ones in last year's Book of Life, you will need to submit a new list of loved ones to include them for this year.
Please return your envelopes long before November 1st. Assist Tracy and I to add your loved ones names (who have already passed away) and not wait until the last minute to include their names. Drop off your envelopes in the basket at the base of the altar.
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Children's Liturgy and Little Spirits
I once again remind you that the Children's Liturgy and Little Spirits programs have resumed. Our young people will be meeting in the St. Ann Room and Gathering Room after I bless them at the beginning of Mass. This will continue until the end of the reconstruction program in St. Cecilia / St. Joachim and St. Nicholas Rooms.
CIA Sessions
I welcome all parishioners to attend our CIA sessions with our next meeting taking place on Tuesday October 13th at 6:30pm.
Upcoming Events
Tickets for our Designer Purse Bingo on Friday October 23rd are available in the Parish office. I encourage all women of the parish to come out and support the Evangelization efforts of our parish. Again, this is the time to invite your daughters, grandchildren, friends and members of your social circles too. Buy your tickets today!
Tickets for our Murder Mystery Dinner on November 20th are also available in the parish office. I encourage all parishioners to attend, this event will sell out! All ages are invited to come out and enjoy a great night of good food, laughs and fun open to all parishioners.
Pew and Floor Campaign
As of September 30th, our update of funds already received:
PEW Campaign – raised funds $57,390 (88% of goal)
FLOOR Campaign – raised funds $49,963.16 (44% of goal)
I continue to ask all families to prayerfully commit to contributing to the restoration of our church. Thank you for your generous support.
Good luck to all those who entered our NFL Survivor Pool. We have 22 teams remaining after a Week 4 of more upsets! Good luck to everyone in Week 5 and thanks for supporting the parish!
Upgrades, Renovations, and Repairs
We have reached an agreement with our insurance company. Church restoration from the flood will take place in two weeks. Please continue to be patient as our parish now reaches a second time of construction. Note however this will not affect Masses in the church – merely the use of the side rooms. Thank you for your patience.
Here is a construction project update - on the remaining items:
1. Technological upgrades to all meeting rooms are also in process to allow all groups to have access to audio / visual tools in each room. PURCHASED / DELIVERED - AWAITING INSTALLATION (due to water damage and renovation ongoing)
2. Gathering room floor was ripped out and epoxy floor has been installed. Awaiting drying and final coating. COMPLETE
3. Water damage in the vestibule of the church affecting the carpets. Insurance company has been in and plans are ongoing for replacing. ONGOING
4. St. Cecilia Room / St. Nicholas Rooms severely damaged due to flooding. Rooms will be rebuilt. ONGOING
5. Commercial cleaning - air ducks, statues, light fixtures, window frames, etc. will be completed once the other projects are complete. SCHEDULED
This gives you a sense of the magnitude of the work being done in the church.
I continue to thank you for your patience and appreciate all those helping and volunteering with set up and tear downs each week.
God's Playbook Podcast
Please be reminded to listen to my daily podcast – GOD'S PLAYBOOK PODCAST found on all streaming platforms to assist you in your development of faith. As we continue our journey with God now into the month of October.
Parish Livestream
You can find our masses posted on Facebook daily and streaming on YouTube. Please be reminded that online Mass does not replace Mass in person. This service is for those who are hospitalized, homebound and unable to attend Mass. This also allows those who work and go to school to participate in daily Mass from home upon the end of their day. Sunday worship continues to be promoted for all parishioners.
Sacrament of Confirmation – Public / Private School Registration
For students who are registered in Public/Private or Home school, Lina Turner, our Parish Catechist, will begin teaching with weekly sessions beginning in the fall. Please contact the parish office now to give your child’s name and information so dates can be shared with you. The Sacrament of Confirmation will be received by all Catholic candidates in January 2027 – and proper preparations must take place. Come Holy Spirit!
We continue to pray for peace in Iran, the Middle East, Nigeria, Ukraine, and other war-torn parts of the world. Let us ask the Lord of peace to bring His peace to these regions and to our world.
God bless,
Fr. Rico
We have been receiving many donations to Message our various campaigns throughout our Parish for the beautification of our Church.
Note here is our update on how our parish PEW PLEDGES and FLOOR CAMPAIGNS so far! As of September 30th, our totals are as follows:
Note here is our update on how our parish PEW PLEDGES and FLOOR CAMPAIGNS so far! As of September 30th, our totals are as follows:
FLOOR CAMPAIGN - $49,963.16
PEW CAMPAIGN - $57,390
Want to join us on FORMED? Register with us by using this link: formed.org/signup
- Type in our Parish name “St. Joseph Catholic Church” and it’ll show the address of the Church. Click on the option “St. Joseph Catholic Church 135 Livingston Ave Grimsby ON “ and go to the next step.
- Enter your full name and email address. Click on “Sign Up”
- Open up your email, and check to see an email titled “Sign in to FORMED” and click on “Sign in now”.
- You will be directed to the FORMED homepage and are now registered under the subscription of St Joseph's (No charges/fees, all paid by the Parish).
On behalf of St. Joseph's, we hope you enjoy exploring the many different Catholic content that is available on FORMED to help you, your family and friends grow rich in the Catholic faith.
We encourage you to sign in to FORMED.org and follow along with us this month!
Staff picks for the month of October
Foretold Season 1
Our world is full of noise. Often, that noise is loud and negative. When was the last time you heard something good on the news? Because of the constant intake of bad news, many people no longer believe in the Providence of God nor trust that he has a plan for us.
Maybe this is you. Perhaps you think God doesn't have a plan for you and your family. But Jesus is the Lord of History, yours included. Join Dr. Sean Innerst in Foretold, a new series from the Augustine Institute that weaves together the Old and New Testament stories, highlighting their connecting threads of prophecy and fulfillment. What was promised in the biblical story came to pass through Jesus, his apostles, and the Church. Ultimately, this biblical history is your history. Just as the prophecies of the Old Testament were fulfilled, you can trust that Jesus will care for you and your story. Encounter this profound mystery and reality for yourself in Foretold.
Our world is full of noise. Often, that noise is loud and negative. When was the last time you heard something good on the news? Because of the constant intake of bad news, many people no longer believe in the Providence of God nor trust that he has a plan for us.
Maybe this is you. Perhaps you think God doesn't have a plan for you and your family. But Jesus is the Lord of History, yours included. Join Dr. Sean Innerst in Foretold, a new series from the Augustine Institute that weaves together the Old and New Testament stories, highlighting their connecting threads of prophecy and fulfillment. What was promised in the biblical story came to pass through Jesus, his apostles, and the Church. Ultimately, this biblical history is your history. Just as the prophecies of the Old Testament were fulfilled, you can trust that Jesus will care for you and your story. Encounter this profound mystery and reality for yourself in Foretold.
Loving and Serving the Poor with Fr. Mark Mary Ames, CFR
How do we view those less fortunate than us? How do we love them, serve them, and help them encounter Christ? These questions are challenging, and honestly, much easier to avoid by dropping a few dollars into a special collection for the poor. While this act is generous, Christ calls us to so much more: a life fully alive in service to others.
Let Franciscan friar Fr. Mark Mary Ames, CFR be your guide to clarity around this challenging topic with stories, ideas, strategies, and challenges for Catholics of every background. His course will truly transform your mind, heart, and life as a disciple on mission and as a Christian in service to others.
How do we view those less fortunate than us? How do we love them, serve them, and help them encounter Christ? These questions are challenging, and honestly, much easier to avoid by dropping a few dollars into a special collection for the poor. While this act is generous, Christ calls us to so much more: a life fully alive in service to others.
Let Franciscan friar Fr. Mark Mary Ames, CFR be your guide to clarity around this challenging topic with stories, ideas, strategies, and challenges for Catholics of every background. His course will truly transform your mind, heart, and life as a disciple on mission and as a Christian in service to others.
God's Playbook Podcast
The journey of faith doesn’t end on Sunday—it continues every day! Stay inspired and connected by tuning into God’s Playbook Podcast. Each episode is packed with Scripture, reflections, and practical insights to help you live your faith daily.
Whether you’re on your morning walk, driving, or taking a quiet moment at home, God’s Word is just a click away. Let’s grow together in love, hope, and purpose!
Haven’t subscribed yet? Find God’s Playbook Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
BAPTISM:
We'd love to hear from you if you’re considering having your child baptized! Please contact the parish office to book your baptism for Fall date in November. There will not be baptisms in the month of December. Contact the parish for details.
Next meeting: Wed, Oct.14, 2026 - email Michele at altobelli.m0404@gmail.com if interested in joining to get time and location of meeting.
Diocese of St. Catharines Second Annual Light the Way Gala
You are warmly invited to join us Friday, November 27th, 2026 at 5:30pm for the Second Annual Light the Way Gala at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre.
Come together with fellow parishioners, community leaders and supporters for an inspiring evening of faith, fellowship and fun, in support of the ministries that strengthen our Diocese and serve our community. This year, you'll experience a beautiful new venue, discover an exciting collection of exceptional live and silent auction packages, and be part of an evening that celebrates the incredible impact we can make together. We look forward to sharing more details with you in the coming weeks.
You are warmly invited to join us Friday, November 27th, 2026 at 5:30pm for the Second Annual Light the Way Gala at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre.
Come together with fellow parishioners, community leaders and supporters for an inspiring evening of faith, fellowship and fun, in support of the ministries that strengthen our Diocese and serve our community. This year, you'll experience a beautiful new venue, discover an exciting collection of exceptional live and silent auction packages, and be part of an evening that celebrates the incredible impact we can make together. We look forward to sharing more details with you in the coming weeks.
GBF Food Bin
Please continue to support those in need in our community. We appreciate any food donations that you can give and a large box to receive your donations can be found just inside the front doors.
GBF Back-to-School Program
A new school year is a fresh start for every student, and GBF Community Services believes that success in education benefits everyone in the community. The Back-to-School Program is designed to give kids from families in financial need the same positive start to the school year as their neighbors, their classmates and their friends. We believe all children deserve to feel encouraged and prepared for their return to school. With 195 children having benefitted from the program in 2025-2026, it is our goal to raise $30,000 in donations for this upcoming school year
Your partnership will complement our efforts in assisting low-income families with children with the back-to-school necessities such as: backpacks, stationary supplies, running shoes, and lunch snacks. Program funds are also used to support school-related activities that take place throughout the year such as: student lunch fees, field trips, photos, uniforms, graduation fees and so much more. With your help, we can ensure students will return to school in September with the resources they need for a successful school year.
To encourage local students in their academic success, GBF Community Services is collecting monetary donations to fund the costs of the Back-To-School Program as well as collecting various school supplies, and lunch snacks to ensure these children are equipped for the new school year. Donations may be delivered to GBF Community Services; 40 Elm Street, Grimsby or online www.gbfgrimsby.com.
We want to thank you for your kind, generosity and support in our work for the betterment of our community's children. It is through collaborative partnerships that all things are possible. Thank you for your consideration.
Top to Bottom
Many parishioners are familiar with our Socktober fundraiser, when the CWL collects socks for those in need in our community every October.From 2020 to 2025, 8,096 pairs of socks were collected and distributed to local agencies who support those in need!!!
As we know, the need continues to be great, so this year we're expanding our efforts and launching a new initiative called "Top to Bottom!"
Throughout the month of October donation bins will be located in the foyer of the church. We are asking parishioners to consider donating new underwear, new hats and new mittens (not gloves) for those in need in our community. Adult (male/female) underwear is most needed. Children's items are also welcome! Please ensure the items are brand new and still in packaging for sanitary reasons.
Every donation, big or small, can make a difference. Thank you for helping us keep our community warm, cared for, and supported!
Please continue to support those in need in our community. We appreciate any food donations that you can give and a large box to receive your donations can be found just inside the front doors.
GBF Back-to-School Program
A new school year is a fresh start for every student, and GBF Community Services believes that success in education benefits everyone in the community. The Back-to-School Program is designed to give kids from families in financial need the same positive start to the school year as their neighbors, their classmates and their friends. We believe all children deserve to feel encouraged and prepared for their return to school. With 195 children having benefitted from the program in 2025-2026, it is our goal to raise $30,000 in donations for this upcoming school year
Your partnership will complement our efforts in assisting low-income families with children with the back-to-school necessities such as: backpacks, stationary supplies, running shoes, and lunch snacks. Program funds are also used to support school-related activities that take place throughout the year such as: student lunch fees, field trips, photos, uniforms, graduation fees and so much more. With your help, we can ensure students will return to school in September with the resources they need for a successful school year.
To encourage local students in their academic success, GBF Community Services is collecting monetary donations to fund the costs of the Back-To-School Program as well as collecting various school supplies, and lunch snacks to ensure these children are equipped for the new school year. Donations may be delivered to GBF Community Services; 40 Elm Street, Grimsby or online www.gbfgrimsby.com.
We want to thank you for your kind, generosity and support in our work for the betterment of our community's children. It is through collaborative partnerships that all things are possible. Thank you for your consideration.
Top to Bottom
Many parishioners are familiar with our Socktober fundraiser, when the CWL collects socks for those in need in our community every October.From 2020 to 2025, 8,096 pairs of socks were collected and distributed to local agencies who support those in need!!!
As we know, the need continues to be great, so this year we're expanding our efforts and launching a new initiative called "Top to Bottom!"
Throughout the month of October donation bins will be located in the foyer of the church. We are asking parishioners to consider donating new underwear, new hats and new mittens (not gloves) for those in need in our community. Adult (male/female) underwear is most needed. Children's items are also welcome! Please ensure the items are brand new and still in packaging for sanitary reasons.
Every donation, big or small, can make a difference. Thank you for helping us keep our community warm, cared for, and supported!
Grimsby Life Centre
Check out the newest newsletter from the Grimsby Life Centre at www.grimsbylife.org
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
The St Vincent de Paul Store at 429 Barton St. East, Hamilton is in need of volunteers for the following tasks: sorters, cashiers, furniture movers and truck drivers. Please consider helping out. Whatever time you can offer would be greatly appreciated! Contact Lee Crampton 289-235-8839
Grimsby Life Centre - Are you a knitter?
We’re looking for donated slippers (all sizes) for clients to wear while visiting the Centre — it helps keep snow and salt off the floors and saves our carpets! If you can help, please drop off slippers at the Centre Monday–Friday, 9–4. Thanks so much for your support!
Assisting Niagara Catholic Students in Need at Christmas
Last Christmas the Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education provided almost $24,000 in relief to assist Niagara Catholic students in need and their families. This act of kindness gave hope, joy and dignity during a challenging time through the delivery of gift cards for food, clothing or personal care items. Please help the Foundation to repeat this Christmas miracle. Any amount would be greatly appreciated. Charity is not a sign of pity. It’s a sign of love. Cheques payable to Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education, 427 Rice Road, Welland, Ontario L3C 7C1. Donate on line at www.nfce.org Visa, MasterCard and American Express accepted. Phone 905-735-0240 extension 210. Donations are tax receiptable.
St. John's Ukrainian Catholic Church Collecting Supplies for Ukraine
Donations can be dropped off at:
91 Lakeshore Road, St. Catharines, ON L2N 2T6
(905) 937-3393 (please call ahead to confirm hours)
stjohnukrainian@bellnet.ca
Most needed right now:
Over-the-counter medications—especially cold and flu remedies and vitamins for children and adults.
We are also collecting:
• Medical and homecare supplies (e.g., gauze, syringes)
• Diapers (children's and adult)
• Wipes (baby and bathing)
• Hygiene items (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap)
• Feminine hygiene products
• Yoga mats and sleeping bags
• Foil emergency blankets
Monetary donations are also greatly appreciated, helping us purchase medical supplies in bulk and other items like power banks. Donate $20 and over and you can get a tax receipt. Donate through our website using etransfer or paypal - www.stjohnuc.com - or mail a cheque to our Church.
Thank you for your generosity and support.
Check out the newest newsletter from the Grimsby Life Centre at www.grimsbylife.org
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
The St Vincent de Paul Store at 429 Barton St. East, Hamilton is in need of volunteers for the following tasks: sorters, cashiers, furniture movers and truck drivers. Please consider helping out. Whatever time you can offer would be greatly appreciated! Contact Lee Crampton 289-235-8839
Grimsby Life Centre - Are you a knitter?
We’re looking for donated slippers (all sizes) for clients to wear while visiting the Centre — it helps keep snow and salt off the floors and saves our carpets! If you can help, please drop off slippers at the Centre Monday–Friday, 9–4. Thanks so much for your support!
Assisting Niagara Catholic Students in Need at Christmas
Last Christmas the Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education provided almost $24,000 in relief to assist Niagara Catholic students in need and their families. This act of kindness gave hope, joy and dignity during a challenging time through the delivery of gift cards for food, clothing or personal care items. Please help the Foundation to repeat this Christmas miracle. Any amount would be greatly appreciated. Charity is not a sign of pity. It’s a sign of love. Cheques payable to Niagara Foundation for Catholic Education, 427 Rice Road, Welland, Ontario L3C 7C1. Donate on line at www.nfce.org Visa, MasterCard and American Express accepted. Phone 905-735-0240 extension 210. Donations are tax receiptable.
St. John's Ukrainian Catholic Church Collecting Supplies for Ukraine
Donations can be dropped off at:
91 Lakeshore Road, St. Catharines, ON L2N 2T6
(905) 937-3393 (please call ahead to confirm hours)
stjohnukrainian@bellnet.ca
Most needed right now:
Over-the-counter medications—especially cold and flu remedies and vitamins for children and adults.
We are also collecting:
• Medical and homecare supplies (e.g., gauze, syringes)
• Diapers (children's and adult)
• Wipes (baby and bathing)
• Hygiene items (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap)
• Feminine hygiene products
• Yoga mats and sleeping bags
• Foil emergency blankets
Monetary donations are also greatly appreciated, helping us purchase medical supplies in bulk and other items like power banks. Donate $20 and over and you can get a tax receipt. Donate through our website using etransfer or paypal - www.stjohnuc.com - or mail a cheque to our Church.
Thank you for your generosity and support.
Monday, October 12th
9:00 a.m. † Sharon McCowell & Sp. Int. for Fr. Rico
Tuesday, October 13th
9:00 a.m. † Mary Neimer & † Maria-Rosa and Manuel Botelho
Wednesday, October 14th - St. Callistus I
9:00 a.m. † George Maugeri & † Leanne Calderone
10:00 a.m. St. Joseph School Thanksgiving Mass (held at the school)
12:00 p.m. Our Lady of Fatima School Thanksgiving Mass (held at the school)
Thursday, October 15th - St. Teresa of Jesus
9:00 a.m. † Stephen Stewart & Sp. Int. for Carmelina Passero
Friday, October 16th - Sts Hedwig and Margart Mary Alacoque
9:00 a.m. † Beatriz Ferreira & Sp. Int. for Nora Aguila
Saturday, October 17th - St. Ignatius of Antioch
9:00 a.m. † Mary Neimer & Sp. Int. for Fr. Rico Passero
5:00 p.m. † Msgr. Vladimir Zivcic & † Jerry Winchester
Sunday, October 18th - 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
9:00 a.m. † Bruce Jones & † Fr. Ed Jankowski & Parishioners of St. Joseph, Living and Deceased
10:30 a.m. † Velma Findlay & † Jennie McQuillan
12 noon † Carmela Continelli & Sp. Int. for Guy Girgenti
FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENT:
Please keep our brothers and sisters in Christ in your prayers as we mourn their passing into the Lord's hands:
- Juana Delanter
- Duncan Grant
- George Styrna
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen.
9:00 a.m. † Sharon McCowell & Sp. Int. for Fr. Rico
Tuesday, October 13th
9:00 a.m. † Mary Neimer & † Maria-Rosa and Manuel Botelho
Wednesday, October 14th - St. Callistus I
9:00 a.m. † George Maugeri & † Leanne Calderone
10:00 a.m. St. Joseph School Thanksgiving Mass (held at the school)
12:00 p.m. Our Lady of Fatima School Thanksgiving Mass (held at the school)
Thursday, October 15th - St. Teresa of Jesus
9:00 a.m. † Stephen Stewart & Sp. Int. for Carmelina Passero
Friday, October 16th - Sts Hedwig and Margart Mary Alacoque
9:00 a.m. † Beatriz Ferreira & Sp. Int. for Nora Aguila
Saturday, October 17th - St. Ignatius of Antioch
9:00 a.m. † Mary Neimer & Sp. Int. for Fr. Rico Passero
5:00 p.m. † Msgr. Vladimir Zivcic & † Jerry Winchester
Sunday, October 18th - 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
9:00 a.m. † Bruce Jones & † Fr. Ed Jankowski & Parishioners of St. Joseph, Living and Deceased
10:30 a.m. † Velma Findlay & † Jennie McQuillan
12 noon † Carmela Continelli & Sp. Int. for Guy Girgenti
FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENT:
Please keep our brothers and sisters in Christ in your prayers as we mourn their passing into the Lord's hands:
- Juana Delanter
- Duncan Grant
- George Styrna
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen.
Prayer intentions of the Holy Father entrusted to his worldwide prayer network for October 2026.
For mental health ministry.
Let us pray that the mental health ministry be established throughout the Church, helping to overcome the stigma and discrimination of persons with mental illnesses.
Let us pray that the mental health ministry be established throughout the Church, helping to overcome the stigma and discrimination of persons with mental illnesses.
His Holiness, Leo XIV
